For many individuals, the final teeth to come in are the wisdom teeth, and their emergence can often be problematic. These third molars usually begin to appear between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five, and their arrival can lead to ongoing discomfort and potential harm to neighboring permanent teeth. Continue reading to explore the reasons why wisdom teeth might grow sideways or become impacted, as well as the various treatment options available to address these issues.
Why Aren’t My Wisdom Teeth Coming in Properly?
The main reason wisdom teeth may not come in properly is usually a lack of space in the mouth. This can cause the third molars to emerge at odd angles, partially break through the gums, or remain completely trapped beneath the gumline. Identifying such issues can be difficult without the help of a dental professional, as impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth are not always visible.
What Kind of Problems Can Sideways Wisdom Teeth Cause?
Improperly emerging wisdom teeth can cause a variety of dental health problems, including:
- Injury to other teeth –Wisdom teeth that don’t come in correctly can push against nearby molars, undoing years of orthodontic work. This misalignment can make it harder to clean your teeth, increasing the risk of damage, infection, and even tooth loss.
- Gum infection –When wisdom teeth don’t emerge properly, they can create pockets in the gums where harmful bacteria can grow. This can lead to infections that may cause jawbone erosion, periodontitis, and other serious dental issues.
- Constant pain –The pressure from crowded third molars pressing against your other teeth can cause ongoing mouth pain.
How Can These Issues Be Treated?
Wisdom teeth are often removed by a dental surgeon due to the problems they can cause. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, so you’ll need someone trustworthy to drive you home afterward.
Although recovery might involve some discomfort, it can be managed with pain medication. Most patients find comfort in knowing that removing their troublesome wisdom teeth will lead to a much more comfortable future.
Grasping the issues and treatment options for impacted wisdom teeth is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Whether you’re thinking about extraction or just keeping an eye on their progress, a dental professional can offer personalized advice and guidance to meet your unique needs.
About the Practice
If you’re feeling unhappy with the size of your teeth, Gold Coast Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is here to help. Our dedicated team offers personalized care and sincere compassion to every patient. We provide a wide range of services, including general, pediatric, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dental treatments. Whether you’re interested in wisdom tooth extractions or other dental procedures, we are ready to assist you. To learn more about our services or to book an appointment, please call us at (516) 744-6262 or visit our website.